The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is a 15 acre waterfront, Historical Site where St. Augustine, Florida began in 1565. Here, on September 8, 1565, Spanish Explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles established the oldest continuous European Settlement in the U.S., and held the first recorded Thanksgiving Feast between Europeans and Native Americans - 55 years before the Pilgrims. The site is 42 years older than Jamestown, and is open 364 days a year.

A wonderful time awaits you at the Fountain of Youth. Visitors can:
•See the stars in our Planetarium,
•Visit our Native Timucua Village,
•Watch a Cannon firing,
•Marvel at Spanish Exploration on our two-story high Discovery Globe,
•Learn about the Birthplace of European America,
•Stroll through a waterfront park where peacocks strut and shady oaks beckon you to stay,
•Visit the snack bar, picnic under the oaks,
•You can even drink from the legendary waters and see if your visit grants you the secret to eternal youth.

We welcome families and couples, corporate retreats and wedding parties. We have the area to handle groups and are prepared to make you, the visitor, feel as if you are an integral part of our beautiful park. If you are planning a family reunion or other gathering, consider using this inviting setting to make the special day a success.

The Timucua Indian Village of Seloy existed here for almost 3,000 years before the arrival of the Spanish in 1513, and with Ponce de Leon's claim of possession for the Spanish King in 1513, "La Florida" was born. No other Spanish colonies that followed were successful...until the arrival of Pedro Menendez de Aviles on September 8, 1565.